Salt of the earth
Boutique Hostal Salinas, Ibiza Hotel, Ibiza Spain
Take a right hand turn into the discreet driveway opposite Las Salinas beach and you’ll discover Boutique Hostal Salinas, an all-new luxury hostel and restaurant smack bang in the centre of a spectacular nature reserve, boasting sand dunes, forests, salt plains, beautiful beaches and incredible sunset views. Once you’ve arrived, it is almost impossible to leave…
Don’t let the name fool you – backpackers hostel this is not! Proudly presided over by new owners (launched in April 2009) and long-time (and legendary) island residents Duesi Wolfmeir, Anita Dey and David Phillips, BHS offers 11 simple yet chic rooms, each with its own terrace, bathed in light and decorated with modern elegance plus all the mod cons.
In the car park you’ll spy 11 perfectly coordinating little white cars (one for each room) giving you the opportunity to explore the island at your own pace – after you’re done with hiking, trekking, diving, swimming, sunbathing and even sailing in your own backyard.
The highlight of BHS however, is the restaurant, a taste-sensational gastronomic affair run with love and passion by Italian chef Antonio Ruta. This former chemist now applies his alchemistic flair to the kitchen, describing it as modern Mediterranean fusion. Daily specials are scrawled across giant blackboard walls and menu del dia is served from 1 until 8pm before the a la carte menu begins. Try the flavour-filled salads, fresh seafood or succulent meat dishes - but be sure to leave room for dessert!
An expansive events area (available for weddings and events) completes the estate, hosting Lailololailo Flamenco parties every Saturday and Jamaican Creole style BBQs on Sundays, before buses whiz you off to Space, where David is resident DJ. Thankfully, he shares his extensive eclectic music collection with BHS daily… yet another reason to visit after a day on the beach!
Published on May 20, 2009